2014 June E-Newsletter

A message from the Executive Director

Published June 2014

Dear Friends of YATC:

2014 is a milestone year for YATC. It marks 30 years since Jim Moran established our one-of-a-kind program designed to give troubled young people a different way to get an education and a solid path to an independent, law-abiding life.

Sometimes I wonder if Mr. Moran knew that the tiny school room on the corner of a car lot in Hollywood would evolve into the award-winning program we have today. I would bet that he did! Thanks to his vision, more than 600 graduates from a variety of backgrounds, ethnicities and geographic locations have received a second chance. YATC helped them overcome many obstacles, including drugs, gangs, academic challenges or life circumstances that were leading each of them to a bleak future. YATC enabled them to start a new life and, thanks to the ongoing generous support of friends like you, the program will continue to do this for many more at-risk youth in the years to come.

From all of these alumni, our future students, staff members and from me personally, thank you to our Board of Directors, Advisory Board members, volunteers and donors for bringing the mission of YATC to life. Even while we are on summer break, we will be preparing for our next group of students and ensuring that their experience with YATC will be life changing. Thank you for all you do and have a great summer!

Sincerely,
Terry Routley

E-Newsletters

YATC's Class 35 celebrates Graduation Day

Published June 2014

The 27 young men of YATC's 35th graduating class recently received their diplomas and took their first steps into the new lives YATC helped them create. The 2014 graduates join more than 600 alumni whose lives have been turned around by the program.

"These students know that when they graduate they are not losing us as family," Executive Director Terry Routley said. "We will continue to stand behind them and provide support when they need us."

Sixteen scholarships for continuing education were awarded at the May graduation ceremony and five students received special recognition for their exceptional dedication to the program.

Pictured above are some of the special awardees (from left): Roel Edwards (tied for Best Attendance); Tim Butler (Bruce Rossmeyer Memorial Kickstart Scholarship Award); Dondrea Grant (tied for Best Attendance); Jarad Boykins (Jump Start Award for excellence in automotive knowledge and repairs); Brian Garvey (Turnabout Award for making significant changes in all areas of his life) and Routley. Additionally, six of this year's graduates earned their GEDs. Former Miami Dolphins defensive end and YATC supporter Jeff Cross helped present certificates of completion.

"I was searching for help and discovered a place with good people to help me get on the right road," award recipient Butler said. "If I hadn't found YATC, I am not sure what my life would look like right now, but I definitely wouldn't have this much hope for my future."

The 2014 Jim Moran Award was given to longtime YATC advocate and Advisory Board member Dr. William Penzer, who visits YATC regularly to provide life management skills training, including counseling on careers, substance abuse and healthcare.

Congratulations to all of the 2014 graduates!

Remembering Our Founder and a special friend

Published June 2014

The YATC family is sad to say goodbye to a wonderful and loyal friend, National Football League legend Earl Morrall, who passed away this spring. Morrall joined the YATC team more than 20 years ago by lending his support to the Jim Moran Classic, attending YATC Graduation and visiting the school to meet students face to face. While always kind, generous and low-key in person, Morrall had a successful 21-year career in the NFL. He gained international fame when he stepped into the quarterback slot and helped lead the Miami Dolphins to its historic perfect 1972 season.

To YATC, Morrall was a friend whose presence will be sorely missed. The photo above of Morrall with Founder Jim Moran was taken at the 2005 YATC Graduation. Our sympathies go out to his beloved wife, Jane, and their children and grandchildren, including son Matthew Morrall, who serves on the YATC Board of Directors.

Penny Farrel memorial fund established

Published June 2014

The Penny J. Farrel Technology Education Fund was created recently in memory of a longtime friend of YATC and a community educator dedicated to improving opportunities for young people. Penny Farrel, wife of Board of Director Malcolm Farrel Jr., passed away in early 2014. The Farrels' history with YATC extends more than two decades as they both devoted countless hours along with their many talents and resources for the benefit our students and graduates.

In recognition of their years of friendship and loyalty to YATC, Jan Moran recently established the Penny J. Farrel Technology Education Fund to honor her memory and provide new opportunities for graduates and students to expand their knowledge in technology-related fields. The fund will allow YATC to implement a new technology curriculum for alumni and students who show an aptitude for computer systems, software design, computer-aided design or business-related technology. In addition the fund will enhance the technology components of YATC's current life skills and automotive curriculum to ensure students remain at the forefront of the industry. Finally, additional scholarships will be provided to graduates for continuing education or work opportunities beyond the YATC.

Our sincere sympathies to the entire Farrel family for the loss of this amazing woman and a special part of our YATC community.